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Filenes IBlueprintsI catalogs innovation efforts

MADISON, Wis. (2/17/09)--The Filene Research Institute has released Key Findings: Blueprints for Innovation, a report on the latest findings from Filene's i3 innovation group. The report, which features 12 new idea blueprints and three updated blueprints designed to fuel credit union growth, is authored by Denise Gabel, Filene's chief innovation officer. The report includes i3 (ideas, innovation and implementation) team outputs developed to help credit union members build wealth, navigate financial waters, meet life's milestones, make community connections and borrow. Three updated ideas are on topics gaining national traction: Prize-Linked Savings, The Savings Revolution, and Virtual Finance. "We encourage credit union innovators to keep this catalog of ideas at hand as they develop their organization's goals and tactics for today's challenging times," said Gabel, "and consider how these solutions may meet member needs." Credit unions can review the ideas and evaluate where they fit for their organizations, then consider how to improve the ideas or customize them in the spirit of open source innovation, Gabel said. Full concept documents are available at filene.org/home/innovation. Filene i3 is committed to strengthening the credit union system through the development of new products, services and business models. The work is accomplished by a team of executive-level volunteers supported by their individual credit union. Their aim is to drive open source innovation that benefits all, said Filene.